quote:Try bananas, almond butter (i use pb2), some type of berries, and a lot of spinach. And either water, almond milk or coconut water. Pineapple, carrots and grapes... that doesn't even sound appealing.

I am nearing the end of my paleo lent and I am 20 + pounds lighter than my start and am thinking about moving on a bit lighter in the carb dept. it wasn't that hard, but summer and beer are calling any recs?

Yeah. Stick to it hard core during the week and enjoy yourself on weekends and vacations. Balance is everything.

Embo, would you recommend I maybe start weening myself back on to animal protein now if I will be eating lamb on Saturday? I was thinking it might be a good idea to have smoothieking for lunch or something. I'm not going to eat meat untl lent is over still but if you think it would help if I started eating protein powder and eggs now I may do that...

I can tell a huge difference. I thought I was up about four pounds because I got weighed at the doctor, but it was off a little. Weighed on the same scale I based my starting weight at, I'm actually about even, down two pounds.

What I meant by tighter belt is that I have lost about an inch in my waist.

I have been allowing myself one day off per week so not to develop an intolerance to anything. Mostly I don't go completely retard, just have like one waffle or something to get some wheat. My workout performance/strength has gotten progressively better and I did my first Rx Crossfit workout on Monday. I will admit to going full food retard this weekend at a Mexican restaurant and it is still slowing me down.

I probably won't stay this strict after lent, but I definitely won't go back to how I was before.

quote:You had suggested apples and carrots so I figured pineapple would mask the flavor better. Ill give the spinach one a try.

I think I was referring to juicing those two, but no worries! I had a smoothie Sunday when I wasn't feeling well that was blue/black/strawberries, spinach and coconut water. Gave me energy and made me feel better... was feeling a little under the weather. It was super refreshing! Anyway, try the banana + nut butter and I think you'll enjoy.

quote:Embo, would you recommend I maybe start weening myself back on to animal protein now if I will be eating lamb on Saturday?

Since you have been having fish on the weekends, I think you will have an easier time transitioning back into meat. I am assuming you will be having some type of family meal on Sunday where you'll be having lamb and don't want to have a puke fest on the tablecloth. If I were you, I would try having some grilled chicken on a salad maybe Friday (or I guess Thursday/Saturday if you're Catholic and not eating meat Friday). That's if you are worried about not being able to eat the lamb. Don't shock your system with a slab of meat, but pair it with things you've been having already. Chicken and veggies (mostly veggies), Eggs and fruit for breakfast or in a smoothie, however you prefer. Most importantly, listen to your body. If you start feeling weird stuff, slow down and see what your body does. If you feel fine, then maybe you won't need as much time to adjust.

ETA: Not sure if you know about the wonderful benefits of Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar, but you should really look into it. I have a shot of it every morning. I am suggesting it to you because it puts good acid into your body (along with hundreds of other benefits) to help digest the food that you eat. Since you will be not wanting to put too much pressure on your stomach, try incorporating this as well.

quote:Its cleansing properties are known to aid digestion by stimulating the flow of enzymes and saliva in the mouth. Vinegar has been shown to support a healthy heart.

Vinegar can do everything from relieving muscle pain from exercise, balancing pH levels, soothing sore throats, and normalizing weight and helping to maintain levels of cholesterol already in the normal range. Externally, it is effective in supporting healthy skin and hair.

It's so easy to incorporate vinegar into your daily diet. When you wake up in the morning just make a delicious cocktail using 2 teaspoons of raw, organic apple cider vinegar, and if you need a sweetener, use organic honey, 100% maple syrup, or molasses to taste. This "Bragg Healthy Cocktail" is designed to flush out wastes that are clogging the organs of elimination, the bowels, lungs, skin, and the kidneys. Take it at least twice a day, and you will start to see changes like increased energy, soft skin, and decreased muscle and joint aches from exercise.

I personally just take a shot (probably more like 2 Tablespoons) every morning and have a little water or fresh juice after, if necessary. The taste will take some getting used to, but after the first few days, you will be used to it.